누가 5야? - 마석도

Who's the 5? - Ma Seok-do

• Pronunciation: Noo-gah Oh-yah? - Mah Suk-doh

This meme first appeared in the movie 'The Roundup' (범죄도시2), released in May 2022, and quickly gained significant popularity. Its status as a meme was further solidified when it was used in a similar context in 'The Roundup: No Way Out' (범죄도시3), released in May 2023.

"Who's the 5?" originates from a line spoken by Detective Ma Seok-do in the movie 'The Roundup' (Crime City 2). When the villain Kang Hae-sang proposes, "Shall we split it 50/50?", Ma Seok-do retorts with this question. Normally, when dividing ratios like 4:6 or 3:7, one would ask who gets more or less. However, Ma Seok-do's question "Who's the 5?" in response to an equal split proposal demonstrates his unique, non-negotiable stance, dismissing the opponent's offer and asserting his dominance. This line perfectly encapsulates Detective Ma's character: he uses an absurd and illogical question in a serious situation to fluster his opponent, ultimately steering the situation to his advantage.

The 'Crime City' film series has garnered nationwide love in Korea, attracting over ten million viewers, and the character Ma Seok-do is widely recognized across a broad age range. Consequently, this meme is used by both men and women across all generations who have watched the movies. It is particularly popular among those aged late teens to 40s who understand and appreciate the films' humor.

• When a friend suggests, "Let's split dinner 50/50 tonight," and you playfully retort, "Who's the 5?" to take the lead.
• Used as a humorous way to refuse an opponent's proposal in a distribution or negotiation situation, especially when you don't want to accept it or believe you deserve a larger share.
• Can be used to change the atmosphere in a serious situation with an absurd question, much like Detective Ma Seok-do, or to express strong determination.

This meme's humor stems from Detective Ma Seok-do's strong and sometimes perceived as rude character. Therefore, using it in actual negotiations or serious conversations might offend the other party or be seen as dismissive. It is best used as a lighthearted joke among people who understand the movie's context.